Walter P. Smith, K1QS SK Master Sergeant Walter Pennell Smith - retired, 76, of Naples, passed away suddenly, yet peacefully, early Sunday morning, March 31, 2019, at the home he shared with his wife of 56 years, Johanna "Mickey" Smith, nee James. Walter was born August 15, 1942, in Portland, to Walter Henry Smith and Faith L. Greenstreet. Shortly after graduating from South Portland High School, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he eventually was assigned to the 6912th Security Squadron as an intelligence specialist. Upon retiring after 20 years of service, Walter enrolled in Southwest Texas State University, where he graduated with a B.A. degree in English. Upon graduation, he taught high school English for 20 years, ultimately ending up at Lakes Region High School in Naples. An avid ham radio enthusiast for the last 62 years, Walter made many friends around the world via the airwaves. Walt was predeceased by his parents; and his two sisters, Jeanette Bran and Caroline Walker. He is survived by his wife, Johanna; Wayne Smith of Windham, and Michele Foss and her husband Kevin of Steep Falls. Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2019, at Hall Funeral Home, 165 Quaker Ridge Rd., Casco, from 2-4 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 5, 2019, at Central Maine Veterans' Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta, at 12 noon. Online condolences may be left for the family at hallfuneralhome.net. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the:Barbara Bush Children's Hospital or:St. Jude's Research Hospital Hall Funeral Home, Inc. 165 Quaker Ridge Road Casco, ME 04015 (207) 627-4538 Published in Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram on Apr. 3, 2019 https://obituaries.pressherald.com/...ld/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=192059490
Walt and I were acquainted for 5 years but we shared a common interest in ham radio, especially DXing. We also shared service to our country in the US Air Force, he preceding me by a couple of years. Like him I was USAFSS but in the 6970th Security Group stationed in Okinawa. In one of our may conversations he mentioned he was an instructor at Goodfellow AFB in San Angelo, Texas. We just missed each other as I passed through Goodfellow AFB leaving in December 1967 and he arriving in January, 1968. Walt, I know you are still listening. Rest in peace until we meet again. 73, Russ - K0VXU
So sad to hear about Walt - he was a real legend and I remember the great times on 14.240. Forever in our thoughts, K1 quite sexy! 73 - Steve G0UIH and Gail at Vortex Antennas in the UK
Passed my UK Novice Licence (md3iom - 10w only) in January 2002, when band conditions were good, and I could work the US east coast with few difficulties. One morning at 0130z, I found Walt and his band of friends on 21400, and gave him a shout. To my surprise, he heard me, and invited me to join in; and, having found out I was VERY new on the air, he encouraged me to call in any time I could heard him. I worked Walt at least once a week up to Jan 2003, when marriage got in the way of radio; but he always made me welcome, encouraged me, and gave me lots of advice. He was a true gentleman; and I was so sad to learn of his passing. RIP Walt, and thanks for the encouragement.
Walt, we miss you. Think about all the time spent on 14.240 everytime I see a signal there on the panadapter. Love you Buddy... Jim WV5K
